Rockland will host a public workshop on cruise tourism’s economic impact and the midcoast city’s efforts to use data to guide planning and policy decisions.
The city’s strategic planning and destination management consultants, Spring Line Group, will make a presentation, along with city staff.
Residents, businesses, harbor users and residents will have the opportunity to learn more about the cruise tourism industry, ask questions and share feedback.
The workshop will be held on Wednesday, May 20, at 5:30 p.m. The location will be City Council chambers at Rockland City Hall, 270 Pleasant St. The meeting will also be livestreamed on the city’s Vimeo channel. The meeting agenda is posted on the city’s website.
Waterfront economy
As a part of Rockland’s economy, tourism helps generate non-property tax revenue that supports waterfront operations, harbor infrastructure and local businesses.
But cruise ship traffic can be controversial, as seen in Bar Harbor, which set limits on the number of visitors who can disembark into town.
In Rockland, the city is reviewing cruise tourism policies, future opportunities and long-term planning needs. Community feedback will play a role in supporting a balanced and transparent decision-making process that aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan, adopted in 2022.
